911 GT3

Make
Porsche
Segment
Coupe

Porsche has just unveiled a second version of their 911 GT3 R Hybrid racer along with plans to return to the 24 Hours of Nurburgring this June. Called version 2.0, the German automaker has reduced the car's weight by some 20 percent by lightening the hybrid system's high voltage components, thus allowing the removal of the massive air intakes on the rear fenders of the old car. It's powered by a 4.0-liter flat six that produces 464 hp along that powers the rear wheels.

There are two electric motors at the front wheels which give an additional combined output of 201 hp, 40 hp more than the previous version. Due to this drivetrain setup, the car can immediately release a 197 hp boost that should prove useful when overtaking on the track. The exterior has a slightly more aerodynamic design that reduces drag and fuel consumption. Weighing a total of 2,866 lbs, it's 110 lbs less than the old car. Inside, many of the controls have moved to the steering wheel, making it easier for drivers to handle key functions without having to take their eyes of the track.

The new GT3-R Hybrid still has an electric flywheel accumulator, which is now stored in a carbon fiber safety cell on the passenger's side. The goal of the project, according to head of Porsche motorsport, Helmut Kristen, "was on improving efficiency...keeping lap times consistent with 2010 but use less energy, hence less fuel."